Shanghai Food Tour: A Culinary Exploration of China’s Vibrant Metropolis
Shanghai, a dynamic blend of modernity and tradition, is one of China’s most exciting food destinations, known for its distinct culinary heritage shaped by its coastal geography, international history, and vibrant street food culture. The city’s cuisine is a fusion of flavors from across China and beyond, with a focus on sweet and savory profiles, where sugar, soy sauce, and ginger are key ingredients.
Iconic dishes like xiaolongbao (steamed soup dumplings), Shanghai-style braised pork belly, and shengjianbao (pan-fried soup dumplings) define its culinary scene, but the real excitement lies in the colorful array of street food found throughout the city. Fresh seafood, including shrimp, crab, and fish, plays a significant role in Shanghai’s cuisine, thanks to its coastal location. Whether you’re enjoying fine dining or exploring local street snacks, Shanghai’s food tour offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience, showcasing the best of the city’s rich culinary offerings.
tinerary
Our carefully crafted 2-Day Shanghai food tour ensures you make the most of your time in this iconic city and enjoy unforgettable food experiences:
Day 1: Culture, Markets, and Traditional Shanghai Cuisine
Begin your day with a traditional Shanghai breakfast of xiaolongbao and shengjianbao, followed by a visit to the tranquil Yuyuan Garden, where you can stroll through its pavilions and ponds. Afterward, explore the lively Yuyuan Bazaar, sampling local street snacks and admiring the traditional architecture. For lunch, indulge in classic Shanghainese dishes at a local restaurant before heading to the Shanghai Museum to explore its impressive collection of ancient Chinese art.
In the afternoon, wander through the historic French Concession, soaking in the tree-lined streets and colonial architecture while enjoying local treats like egg tarts and fried dumplings. Finish your day with a seafood hot pot dinner, where you can cook fresh seafood in a flavorful broth, and then take a leisurely walk along The Bund to admire the stunning skyline of Shanghai’s iconic waterfront.
- Transportation: Private vehicle tranfer from hotel/airport
Day 2: Street Food and Off-the-Beaten-Path Delights
Start your day with a dim sum breakfast before exploring Shanghai’s Old City, where you’ll visit the Temple of the City God and sample local snacks. Afterward, enjoy a bowl of Shanghai-style noodles for lunch, then head to Xintiandi to explore its mix of historic and modern architecture while trying street food.
In the afternoon, visit the serene Jade Buddha Temple before unwinding at a traditional tea house for a relaxing tea experience. End your day with a fine dining dinner at a top restaurant, followed by the option to catch a Shanghai Acrobatics Show or take a night cruise along the Huangpu River to see the city skyline.
- Transportation: Private vehicle tranfer to hotel/airport
Inclusion/Exclusion
- What's Included:
- Panda Tourism's expert travel director and private vehicle with skilled professional driver
- Iconic sightseeing highlights plus unexpected extras
- Audio headsets for special destination tours
- Private premium transportation coach/vehicle
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- Optional experiences and plenty of leisure time
- What's Not Included:
- International flights to and from China
- China visa fees
- Hotel accommodations
- Fees for meal
Important Information
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves extensive walking.
- Tripods, drones and oversize luggage are not allowed.